Hello Students,

Here are some important points I would like to remind you of as you write your cover letters:

• Companies usually ask people who apply to work for them to send cover letters with their resumes. However, those people often act like the cover letter is not significant. Sometimes they don’t send a cover letter at all or just one short paragraph.  This letter will not help you find a good job. When you send a poor cover letter, you tell an employer that you cannot finish your job, even when it is important. Some things to remember:

Too short is too bad

• Many people send short notes that are one paragraph, or just a few sentences instead of real cover letters.  A cover letter should have three to four paragraphs.  No paragraphs should be more than six lines, and the longest paragraph should be the middle one.  The shortest one should be the conclusion paragraph. The idea is to make the document brief and easy readable and demonstrate a professional, thoughtful manner.

Silliness

• Many people try to make their cover letters funny, but these attempts rarely work. You do not know if your prospective boss undestands your sense of humor.  More generally, the cover letter is a chance for you to show your boss how you conduct business communication and your writing skills. Making jokes can hide your professionalism.

Here are some sample cover letters:

Cover Letter

Cover Letter New Nurse

Advertising Cover Letter

Advertising Job Cover Letter

Consulting Cover Letter

Assistant Editor Cover Letter

Referral Cover Letter

Directions:

1.  Take a look at these different cover letters to get ideas for your own cover letters.

2.  Preare a one-page cover letter together with your business resume, and bring them to class.  We will have a peer review session on Wednesday.  You may adapt some of these letters to your own use, but do not copy them word for word.  Looking forward to seeing you!